Did you grow up with scratch tickets? GBH's Ian Coss joins returns to the show to talk about the story behind his new podcast series, Scratch & Win. We bet (wink wink) that you'll love our conversation on the history of the state lottery, the evolution of gambling in America, and Massachusetts' love affair with scratch tickets.

See the cherry blossoms in Philadelphia.

Middle Child comes to PHL Airport.

Soups on at Fenway. 

The best Dim Sum in Boston, according to former EBtM guest Shirley Leung.

Viva Karaoke.

Ian's first appearance on the EBtM, talking about the Big Dig.

Mistledough ad.

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This week, we're talking about the Boston Public Library, a beloved institution that started in two rooms and grew into a palace of learning. My guests Katherine Mitchell and Anna Fahey-Flynn tell me about BPL's history, how the library is changing with the times, and offer tips on making the most of your next visit. Plus, "Here Comes the Pizza!"

Bok Bar reopens.

Nick Castellanos has a favorite super hero.

With origins at MIT, torpedo bats take MLB by storm.

"Here comes the pizza!" plus a deep dive from ESPN.

EBtM "Boston" versus Boston with Garrett Dash Nelson.

New York Public Library on ice in Day After Tomorrow.

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In this episode, we're joined by local influencer JQ Louise to learn about how the sausage is made — how local restaurants go viral, the most photographed places to town, and the contrast between the Boston of the internet and Boston IRL.

Follow JQ Louise at @TheJQList and @JQLouise on Instagram; and check out her website here.

Rodney Peete catches a fly ball in Tokyo.

The Wanamaker Building closes; the trailer for Mannequin, a camp classic.

Nashville's wings, the ultimate influencer catnip.

Explain Boston to Me: The curious case of the $600,000 liquor license with Shirley Leung.

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Thomas Menino was mayor of Boston for over 20 years. What made him such a successful politician? How did the city change under his watch? What were some of his signature achievements and nagging failures? We're joined by Wilbur C. Rich, professor emeritus at Wellesley College and author of Boston Mayor Thomas Menino: Lessons for Governing Post-Industrial Cities, to talk about this iconic figure.

Hawk Krall 

"We're talkin' about the Phightins..."

"We was catching em, unlike Agholor..."

Dropkick Murphys, American heroes

BORG City 

Belichick keeps his GF looped in on his work emails

A scorpion loose at Logan

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Did you know that Liberian dictator and international war criminal Charles Taylor broke out of prison in Massachusetts? He also earned an accounting degree, lived in Roxbury, and smuggled illegal goods from Southie's ports. Journalist Nate Horman has all the details about this wild corner of Boston history.

Milt Williams to the Patriots.

Celtics City on HBO. 

"Diamonds and Guns: AN INFAMOUS WEST AFRICAN WARLORD’S BAY STATE JAILBREAK" by Nate Homan.

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In this episode, we riff on The Rat, Boston's answer to CBGB and an essential piece of the city's music history. We're looking back through the lens of "Making a Scene," an exhibit at Harvard's Loeb Music Library. This episode includes a visit to the gallery, which is open to the public through April 18, 2025. Plus, regional accent talk, Boston Monopoly (make your voices heard!), and Irish Potato szn.

The Philly Tuxedo

The Propeller Product Prop 4-1 reissue (highly recommend!)

Boston Groupie News

The Rathskeller Suite at Hotel Commonwealth :(

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In this episode, we're talking about Kowloon, a North Shore staple that has hosted generations of prom afterparties, post-game hangs, and family gatherings. Filmmakers Mona Xia and Erin Ramirez made a short film that offers an intimate look at the family behind the enormous eatery. (You can watch the 15-minute film, Kowloon!, HERE.) Plus, a couple listeners share their own takes on the Mai Tai Mecca.

The SS United States is headed for a new home under the sea.

Nick Castellanos has impeccable/horrible timing. Plus, the Instagram reel that inspired me today.

Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

I need your help! I want to fill out my upcoming episode on Kowloon with your stories. What does this North Shore stalwart mean to you? What makes the Saugus restaurant so special? What is your favorite Kowloon memory? Your most beloved dish? Send a voice note (preferred) or a written ode to [email protected]. You can also reach out via instagram: @explainbostontome.

Then listen to next week's ep to hear the greatest hits.

In this episode, Steve Guerriero of the Charles River Museum of Industry & Innovation tells us about how the Industrial Revolution transformed New England, creating mill towns and re-ordering local society for good. From boom times to going bust, these factories have a tremendous impact to this day — even if they're now loft apartments, craft breweries, or chic wedding venues.

Howie Roseman gets hit with a can of beer during the Eagles' Super Bowl Parade.

My favorite Philly rat story. 

Seven Brides for Seven Brothers — bemoaning the neverending winter.

Did you read Lyddie??

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This week, we're talking about the local war against rats with Dave Power from the City of Cambridge. Spoiler alert: It is ongoing! As you'll hear, this issue is a personal one. Plus, my reaction to the Eagles' Super Bowl win and a look into Jeremy Strong's psyche.

Eagles win the Super Bowl.

The Dunkin' ad featuring Bill Belichick and Jeremy Stong; Jeremy Strong talks to Vanity Fair about his process.

Patriots fans rejoice at Patrick Mahomes' downfall.

Jalen + trophy + cigar. 

Do you have a rat problem? Get in touch with the City of Cambridge.

Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.